I used to be the type of person who would peel an orange, eat it, and then mindlessly chuck the peel into the bin without a second thought. But that all changed one day when I stumbled upon a simple trick that made me realise how much potential those peels had! Now, every time I eat an orange, I can’t help but feel a bit of excitement thinking about all the ways I can use that vibrant, zesty peel.
If you’re still tossing your orange peels in the trash, let me share seven brilliant reasons why you should stop right now and start making the most of them. Trust me, you’ll never look at an orange the same way again.
1. Natural Air Freshener
One of the first things I noticed about orange peels is how amazing they smell—zesty, fresh, and uplifting. Instead of buying air fresheners packed with chemicals, I started placing dried orange peels around the house, and it’s been a game-changer. Whether it’s in a little dish by the sink or a few peels in the bin to keep things smelling fresh, the scent is always so refreshing. I even simmer them with a few cinnamon sticks in water on the stove, and suddenly, my whole home smells like a cosy autumn day. It’s much better than those synthetic sprays, and it costs absolutely nothing!
2. Fantastic Cleaner
This one blew my mind when I first tried it. Did you know you can make your own citrus cleaner with orange peels? I simply stuff a jar with the peels, pour in some vinegar, and let it sit for about two weeks. The result? A powerful, natural cleaner that smells great and works wonders on kitchen counters, sinks, and even windows. It’s especially satisfying knowing I’m using something homemade rather than a store-bought chemical cleaner. Plus, that fresh citrusy smell while cleaning is an added bonus. My kitchen has never felt more fresh!
3. Keeps Pests at Bay
This was a revelation for me—orange peels are actually a natural deterrent for pests like ants and mosquitoes. I’ve had issues with ants sneaking into the kitchen now and then, and I found that placing orange peels around their entry points did the trick! The citrusy oils act as a natural repellent, and it’s a completely safe option, especially if you have pets or kids around. I even rub the peels on my skin when I’m gardening to help keep mosquitoes at bay, and it’s surprisingly effective. It’s such a simple, eco-friendly solution that really works.
4. Great for Composting
If you’ve got a compost bin or heap, then you absolutely *shouldn’t* be throwing orange peels in the trash! They’re packed with nitrogen and other nutrients that are fantastic for the soil. At first, I thought they might take ages to break down, but cutting them into smaller pieces helps speed up the process. Over time, they break down beautifully and enrich the compost, which I then use to feed my plants. It’s a win-win—less waste and healthier soil for my garden.
5. Adds Zing to Your Cooking
This one might seem obvious, but I never used to save my orange peels for cooking. What a mistake! Now, I zest my orange peels before I eat the fruit, and I store the zest in the freezer for later use. It’s amazing what a little orange zest can do to elevate a dish. I use it in baking (orange zest in brownies is a game-changer), sprinkle it into marinades, or even add it to a warm cup of tea for a citrusy kick. I’ve also tried candying the peels—it’s a bit of a process, but the result is a sweet treat that’s perfect for nibbling or as a garnish.
6. DIY Skincare Boost
Now, here’s a fun one that I was sceptical about at first but have totally fallen in love with—orange peels are fantastic for skincare. They’re rich in vitamin C, which is great for brightening the skin. I dry the peels, grind them into a fine powder, and mix them with honey or yoghurt to create a brightening face mask. It leaves my skin feeling soft and glowing, and it’s all-natural! There’s something so satisfying about using a homemade skincare product that you know is fresh and free from any weird ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to pamper yourself without breaking the bank.
7. Perfect for Crafting
I never considered myself much of a crafter, but once I realised how beautiful dried orange peels could be, I started getting a bit creative. I’ve used them to make natural potpourri with dried flowers, spices, and pinecones. I’ve also made little Christmas decorations by cutting the peels into shapes and letting them dry. The possibilities are endless, and it adds such a natural, rustic touch to my home décor. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with the kids (or just for a bit of mindful crafting time for myself).
Final Thoughts: A New Appreciation for Orange Peels
I never thought I’d be so passionate about something as simple as an orange peel, but here we are! Once I stopped throwing them away and started using them in all these creative and practical ways, it became a bit of a habit. Now, every time I peel an orange, I can’t wait to decide what I’m going to do with the peel.
So, the next time you’re tempted to toss that peel in the bin, think again. Whether it’s freshening up your home, making a natural cleaner, or using it in your cooking, there’s so much potential packed into those vibrant little peels. Give it a try—you might be as pleasantly surprised as I was!